Sylvia R. (Schmidt) Braatz

Sylvia Ruth Braatz, 89, of Waupaca, died on Saturday, November 18, 2017 surrounded by her family at Bethany Pines Assisted Living.

Sylvia was born January 31, 1928 to Alfred and Clarinda (Beimborn) Schmidt, Town of Saukville. She was baptized and confirmed by Pastor Petermann at St. John Lutheran Church, Newburg.

Sylvia married the love of her life, Kenneth Braatz, on June 17, 1945 at St. John Lutheran Church, Newburg, united in marriage by Pastor Alfred Maaske. God blessed Sylvia and Ken with 72 years of marriage.

Sylvia is survived by her loving husband, Kenneth, their children: Judi (Robert) Rehm of Weyauwega, Deb (Jeff) Lederhaus of Appleton, Craig (Leigh) Braatz of Waupaca and Lori (Joe) O’Brien of Shiocton. Their grandchildren: Amy Ankenbauer, Tony (JoyLyn) Rehm, Jessica Prasnicki, Jason (Paula) Prasnicki, Suzanne (Doug Swanke) Braatz, Sadie (Andy Erickson) O’Brien, Devin (Kelyn) O’Brien plus 17 great grandchildren, 7 great-great grandchildren, 4 step grandsons and 4 step great grandchildren; sister-in-law Arlene Schmidt of Cascade and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mom was preceded in death by her dear parents, Alfred and Clarinda Schmidt; brother, Allen Schmidt; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Leslie and Mae Braatz; and great grandson, Tyler Peterson.

Sylvia was well known for her beautiful smile plus her devotion to her family, camping, gardening and baking her famous apple pies. A longtime member of Emanuel Lutheran Church in New London, she was actively involved in Lutheran Women’s Mission Society. Mom touched many lives volunteering for the Accelerated Reading Program at Emanuel Lutheran School, Meals on Wheels and taking people to worship at St. Joseph’s Residence. Her favorite club was Town & Country Garden Club in Manawa. 

A funeral to celebrate Sylvia’s life and blessings will take place on Monday, November 27, 2017 at 12:00 pm at Emanuel Lutheran Church, New London, with Pastor Marcus Schulz officiating. Friends may gather for visitation from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm before the service. Committal service will be held at 2:30pm at Oakwood Cemetery in Weyauwega.

The family would like to thank Pastors Schulz, Tiefel and Heiges of Emanuel Lutheran Church, the loving staff at Bethany Pines Assisted Living, Dr. Wenberg, the Visiting Nurses and staff of ThedaCare Hospice and the staff of Synergy Home Care.

“Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so. Little ones to Him belong, they are weak but He is strong, Yes Jesus loves me, yes Jesus loves me, yes Jesus loves me, the Bible tells me so.”

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